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What does a Pharmacy Assistant do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A pharmacy assistant is responsible for providing customer service and performing administrative duties in a pharmacy. They may also be responsible for stocking shelves, preparing prescriptions, and assisting pharmacists with other tasks.

Pharmacy Assistant job duties include:

  • Receive prescription requests from patients and input them into the computer
  • Contact insurance companies to verify coverage and obtain prior authorization for prescriptions
  • Prepare medications by counting, pouring, or measuring them
  • Type and print labels for prescriptions
  • File completed prescriptions
  • Answer the phone and direct calls to the appropriate person
  • Greet customers and answer their questions
  • Restock shelves with medications and supplies
  • Clean the work area

Pharmacy Assistant Job Requirements

A pharmacy assistant typically needs a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must complete on-the-job training. Some states have certification programs for pharmacy assistants. Employers usually prefer to hire candidates with prior experience working in a pharmacy.

Pharmacy Assistant Skills

  • Passion for helping people
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Good organizational and time management skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Accurate
  • Able to work well under pressure
  • Good communication skills
  • Basic math skills
  • Computer literacy
  • Flexible
  • Team player

Related: Top Pharmacy Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Pharmacy Assistant

A pharmacy assistant is a person who helps a pharmacist dispense prescription medications to patients. A pharmacy assistant may also be responsible for stocking shelves and keeping the pharmacy clean and organized.

If you are interested in becoming a pharmacy assistant, you will need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a pharmacy technician program. Many community colleges and technical schools offer these programs.

Once you have the necessary education, you will need to find a job at a pharmacy. Many pharmacies will require you to complete on-the-job training before you can work independently. Once you have completed your training, you will be able to dispense medications under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.

As a pharmacy assistant, you will play an important role in ensuring that patients receive the medications they need. You will also be responsible for providing excellent customer service. If you are interested in helping people and working in a fast-paced environment, then a career as a pharmacy assistant may be right for you!

Related: Pharmacy Assistant Resume Example

Related: Pharmacy Assistant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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